Parents' Guide to

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword

By S. Jhoanna Robledo, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Big, loud, violent, but amusing retelling of ancient legend.

Movie PG-13 2017 126 minutes
King Arthur: Legend of the Sword Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Community Reviews

age 14+

Based on 15 parent reviews

age 12+
age 12+

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
Too much violence

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (15):
Kids say (12):

Despite its talented cast and legendary subject matter, Ritchie's "Snatchelot" interpretation of the King Arthur story is too uneven to merit a franchise; but it is, at times, undeniably fun. It's a shame the movie isn't considerably better, because with its internationally appealing ensemble, it would've stood a chance at a decent franchise. Star Hunnam, who's best known for his seven seasons on Sons of Anarchy, has the charisma, gravitas, and physicality of a slightly bulkier, younger Brad Pitt. With his ability to talk fast and convincingly play a high-born prince bred in a low-born gutter, he's well cast.

It's a bit of a mess, but King Arthur: Legend of the Sword is diverting enough, especially for those who are already Ritchie fans (he even has a cameo in a key scene). Audiences who won't mind reveling in the chaos, the occasionally nonsensical plot points, the hammy villains, and the chemistry between Arthur and the beautiful, mysterious "Mage" (watch out for a spoiler regarding her identity in the credits) will have enough to keep them happy. There isn't much here from the classic version of the legend besides some of the names, so you don't need to know a thing about Arthurian legend (in fact, it's best NOT to) to follow along. There have been plenty of worse fantasy reboots, and at least this one has a brag-worthy cast.

Movie Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate